On Solid Ground
Barrie, Ontario
Overview:
On Solid Ground has been operating for over 10 years. The clinic bases its therapy and learning on the scientific principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), focused on the individual learning needs of those with autism to help elevate critical life skills, including communication, socialization, and motor skills. According to the clinic’s Founder and Clinical Director, Tammy Frazer, their previous location lacked an outdoor space, and her dream was to create one that would allow their children to connect with nature.
“As we were preparing for our move to the new location, I came upon Bienenstock Natural Playground’s contest via Facebook and saw how it aligned with our fundamental need for natural, outdoor play. I immediately applied, envisioning us winning the contest, and even though it was random, the match for our organization was perfect. I knew in my heart we would win. I marked the draw date on my calendar and waited and was thrilled when I received the phone call notifying us, we had won. To-date the children and staff have been thrilled with the new open-ended learning pod,” said Frazer.
For Jill Bienenstock, Director of Education at Bienenstock Natural Playgrounds, the learning pods provide children with autism a sensory-rich, outdoor space to learn and play. Here, they can develop essential communication, social, and motor skills while supporting problem-solving and self-regulation.
“It’s important to provide a variety of sensory-rich opportunities for children with autism. Our open-ended learning pods allow a variety of sensory experiences for children of all abilities; whether they crave it or fear it, there is a way for children to be included. Our sand pod offers sensory experiences for children who desire it, along with climbing options on the stump and log sand border for children who prefer not to play in the sand. All experiences provide children with access to what they need while promoting physical development, motor planning, and social skills. There is a place of mastery here for all children,” said Bienenstock.
Next Steps
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